Arsenal Advances in Carabao Cup After Thrilling Penalty Shootout

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta described it as “emotionally tough” to accept the late equalizer from Crystal Palace during their Carabao Cup quarterfinal, which ultimately ended in a 1-1 draw before Arsenal triumphed 8-7 on penalties.

The match at the Emirates Stadium could have concluded by halftime, as Arsenal squandered several opportunities, while Palace’s second-string goalkeeper, Walter Benítez, delivered an impressive performance to keep the score level at the break.

The breakthrough for Arsenal came with just ten minutes remaining. Riccardo Calafiori headed down a corner from Bukayo Saka, and amidst the ensuing confusion, Palace defender Maxence Lacroix inadvertently directed the ball into his own net as they attempted to clear it.

However, Palace fought back in the fifth minute of stoppage time. Jefferson Lerma nodded the ball down during a corner, allowing Marc Guéhi to score with a shot that squeezed beneath Arsenal’s goalkeeper, Kepa Arrizabalaga. This marked Palace’s first shot on target.

After 15 successful penalties, Lacroix faced misfortune again as Kepa dove to his right to secure Arsenal’s advancement. Arteta expressed frustration that his side had not secured the win earlier.

“Given the number of changes we made and the energy and quality displayed against a well-organized team that concedes few chances, we created numerous opportunities,” he noted.

“The margin should have been much bigger. When that doesn’t happen, teams can capitalize on set-pieces. That was emotionally challenging to accept, but we remained composed and demonstrated great quality during the shootout. I’m very pleased for Kepa making the decisive save.”

Benítez had previously made crucial saves in the first half, thwarting attempts from Noni Madueke, Gabriel Jesus, and Eberechi Eze before he notably blocked a shot from substitute Declan Rice, nearly at the final whistle.

“The margins should have been larger; it should have been three or four, which would alleviate concerns about a last-minute equalizer,” Arteta remarked. “When pursuing trophies, the margins are incredibly small, and we must focus on every detail to succeed.”

This victory marks Arsenal’s fourth consecutive win and sets them up for a semifinal matchup against Chelsea in January. It also follows their recent success over Everton, allowing them to maintain a two-point lead at the top of the Premier League.

“Winning in various situations and contexts is essential,” Arteta stated. “We faced two very challenging games, and I’m proud of the players for consistently performing at such a high level every three days.”

Meanwhile, Palace manager Oliver Glasner reported uncertainty regarding defender Chris Richards’ availability after he was taken off the field with a significant cut to his foot.

“He sustained an injury to his foot that required stitches,” Glasner explained. “The doctor informed me that it doesn’t appear too serious, and I remain optimistic. I’m unsure if he’ll be fit for the Tottenham match on December 28, but I hope he can return for the game against Fulham on January 1.”